Pilot training is carried out according to the GFA  training manual. We don't offer intensive courses, rather you fly on the days it suits you and take your own time to complete the syllabus. You will get an opportunity to fly with every one of our instructors and you will quickly find out which training style suits you. The instructors give their time for free - you only pay for the glider hire.

Here are some things you should be aware of if you are considering learning to fly. Weight limitation:
The gliders are certified for a maximum passenger weight of 110kg. This cannot be exceeded, even by 1kg. There is also a minimum weight but we have extra ballast weights to make up the difference as long as you weigh at least 55kg. Other than weight, if you can fit comfortably into the glider you can fly in it.
Medical requirements:
If you are fit to drive a car you are fit to fly a glider. When you join GFA and each year when you renew your membership you will be asked to sign a declaration of fitness. If you are not able to sign the declaration because of a medical condition your GP is able sign it provided the GP can certify that you meet the requirements for issue of a private drivers licence.
Minimum age for solo flight:
You are not permitted to fly a glider solo in Australia until you are at least 15 years of age. You may start training at any age but in practice, you should proably delay until about 14 years and a few months.
What to bring/wear:
Please wear secure shoes; not thongs. You will need a hat and sunscreen, even on a cloudy day. The best kind of hat is one with a soft brim that goes all the way around to cover your ears and the back of your neck. A baseball hat is only just better than nothing. Ladies, you may find it awkward if you wear a tight or long skirt. The glider cockpit is quite warm so you don't need warm clothing.
Payment:
The club cannot accept credit cards onsite. You may pay cash on the day or purchase a gift voucher on line prior to the day. Once you have joined the club, you will be able to pay by bank transfer if you prefer.

Unlike power planes, there is no minimum number of hours you have to do to go solo. When the instructor thinks you're ready, you're ready. There is only one book to buy (we can sell you a copy) and no stressful exams to do. In Australia, there isn't even a licence - unlike Dumbo the elephant, you don't need to hold a piece of paper to fly. This is safe because it's impossible to get into a glider and take off "unlicenced," you can only get off the ground with the assistance of other club members, notably the tug pilot.

The student sits in the front seat of the glider. This is done for two reasons: first the balance of the glider is not changed when the instructor climbs out to let you go solo and second, it is better training for a single seater, where every seat is the front seat. The two seater feels light and easy to fly until you get into a single seater. Then you can feel the ultimate soaring experience.

As a student at HVGC, you will be expected to help get the gliders out of the hangar in the morning, prepare them for the day and put them away again in the afternoon. This makes gliding affordable. There are no paid employees. It does unfortunately mean that a solid investment of time is necessary.

 
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